Loneliness warning for people with epilepsy – The Press, York

PEOPLE with epilepsy in Yorkshire are at serious risk of loneliness and isolation, even if they do not have active seizures, a charity has warned.

A survey from Epilepsy Action found that six out of ten people with epilepsy in Yorkshire have experienced feelings of loneliness. More than three quarters said that having epilepsy had a negative impact on their ability to take part in certain activities or events.

There are 51,000 people living with epilepsy in Yorkshire and the Humber.

Philip Lee, Epilepsy Action chief executive, said: “The survey results are a clear indication that the challenges of living with epilepsy are wide reaching. Epilepsy is an invisible condition yet it affects people’s lives in so many ways and can leave people feeling alone, isolated and misunderstood. We know that loneliness can have a significant impact on people’s physical and mental health, and even life expectancy. It doesn’t have to be this way. Epilepsy Action is there for people when they need us most, whether it’s a chat with one of our helpline experts or friendly support at one of our coffee and chat groups.”

To mark an international day of action on epilepsy, the charity is asking people to donate to Epilepsy Action. Text PURPLE to 70300 to donate £3. Texts cost £3 plus your standard network rate. UK only. Epilepsy Action will receive 100 per cent of the donation. To find out more about Purple Day, visit epilepsy.org.uk/purple

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